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Financing

Wendy's faces more upheaval that it doesn't deserve

The Bottom Line: The fast-food chain early last year decided to replace a successful CEO with a restaurant industry outsider. That outsider has now left, leaving the company with more uncertainty.

Technology

Olo's restaurant tech odyssey will continue in private

Tech Check: After a rocky few years on the public markets, the online ordering giant will continue its quest for “hospitality at scale” under a new owner.

The Bottom Line: The state’s fast-food wage hasn’t driven up prices at limited-service restaurants, at least compared with full-service chains. That doesn’t mean it’s not expensive there.

The Bottom Line: Starbucks and McDonald’s are struggling while full-service restaurants like Chili’s and Olive Garden are thriving. Consumers may be rediscovering their love of hospitality.

As venture funding dries up and early investors seek exits, a wave of M&A is hitting the fragmented market. Experts say it’s long overdue, but some restaurants are wary of consolidation.

Behind the Menu: Wild new flavors and upgraded ingredients give the fast casual’s bar program a boost—and customers are noticing.

The Bottom Line: Biglari Holdings’ share price has improved over the past couple of years, and now its chairman is eyeing both Jack in the Box and El Pollo Loco. But there are lessons for other restaurant executives.

The Bottom Line: Taco Bell and Whataburger have introduced new beverages in recent days. McDonald’s is testing its own options. Expect other quick-service chains to jump into the fray.

Guzman Y Gomez is a more-than 220-unit fast-food brand in Australia, Japan and Singapore. Its American-born founder hopes to prove the concept in Chicago.

The Bottom Line: Wall Street is slowly dipping its toe back into restaurant industry stocks. Investors are leery about fast-food chains and they’re jumping onto a few key casual-dining bandwagons.

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